Portsmouth 13th July - 13th September
Hampshire is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable year of culture, coast and great days out. Whether you love historic cities, family‑friendly attractions or beautiful countryside, you’ll find plenty of Hampshire events to enjoy across the county in every season.
From city celebrations and outdoor festivals to family attractions and seasonal events, Hampshire offers an exciting calendar of events throughout 2026. This autumn in Portsmouth, the city celebrates its 100th anniversary, with the return of the colourful International Kite Festival filling the skies above Southsea Common (F) 12 - 13 September, whilst in November, We Shine returns, with light illuminations and displays from 19 - 21 November (F). In Winchester, its the fantastic annual torchlight procession and fireworks display that is a must for the diary, (7 November) filling the streets of this historic town with families, friends, visitors and residents alike, whilst in Basingstoke there's a whole host of spooktacular free family-fun this October half term in the town centre.
Don't miss the chance to enjoy the thrilling Go Ape experience by night this autumn at Itchen Valley Park, Southampton (16 October - 8 November), or miss the UK's biggest Oktoberfest at Southampton Guildhall Square, with music, Bavarian food and a themed marquee (23 - 24 October). Pick up a new autumn wardrode with a visit to John Lewis at WestQuay, or join their upcoming home design talk for some great ideas to refresh your decor (16 October) - a great all-weather day out. Enjoy the changing of the season with the Jane Austen circular walk, a four and half mile trail that starts from Jane Austen's House and explores some of East Hampshire's beautiful countryside.
From scenic coastlines and vibrant events to cosy villages, walking trails and excellent places to eat, Hampshire is the ideal destination for a short break or longer escape. Start planning your 2026 summer adventure today and discover some of the county's top events, attractions and experiences.
Grab your calendar and take a look at what's happening in Hampshire over the coming months with our featured events list or scroll to the bottom and discover hundreds of events happening today, this weekend and across this year. From coastal festivals and city celebrations to countryside walks, food experiences and family attractions, Hampshire offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.
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You can find a wide range of events taking place across Hampshire today and this weekend, including theatre shows, interactive workshops, wildlife experiences and outdoor events in the Hampshire countryside. Use the date filters above, or browse the listings to find lots of inspiration and ideas for something happening near you. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (Free) taking place.
If you're travelling from outside the county for an event in Hampshire, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs. Search Hampshire accommodation to plan your stay, whether your choose the coastal city of Portsmouth or Southampton, Winchester - the ancient capital of England - or a more rural stay in Chawton or Alton, East Hampshire.
Yes, Hampshire hosts a wide range of family-friendly events throughout the year, from nature trails, outdoor festivals, science fairs and interactive school holiday activities. Use the 'type filter' in the search box above and choose family to find suitable events. During the summer holidays and key seasonal periods, you'll find even more events designed for children and families, with activities suitable for all ages.
Yes. South Western Railway connects more than 50 stations across Hampshire with London Waterloo, Vauxhall and Clapham Junction making a day trip or weekend break easy from London. Book your rail tickets and enjoy your next event in Hampshire.
The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Hampshire. Whether you're looking for what's on this weekend or planning further ahead, you'll find plenty of inspiration. If you're local or visiting Hampshire for the first time, use the 'Map View' button to discover events happening near you.
Some of the events below take place on the Isle of Wight, which is easily accessible by ferry or hovercraft from Portsmouth or Lymington.
Number of results: 100
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Carnival
Ventnor
Ventnor Lantern Parade and Carnival lights up the Isle of Wight with a magical procession of illuminated lanterns, decorated floats and costumed performers. This family-friendly community celebration transforms the streets of Ventnor into a…
Christmas
Cowes
The Northwood House Christmas Fair returns on Saturday 28 November and Sunday 29 November 2026 on Isle of Wight. There is a VIP Preview Night on Friday 27 November.
Other
Winchester
Heading away on a cruise from Southampton? Start your holiday stress-free with the Cruise & Park Package at voco Winchester Hotel & Spa.
Talks
23 Harbour Parade, Southampton
Join the John Lewis Southampton Home Design Stylists in store for an exclusive masterclass and unlock the secrets of festive tablescaping.
Expect live styling demonstrations and insider secrets to help you create a show-stopping table setting this…
Festival
Ovington, Alresford
A world of unity, creativity & freedom, Boomtown Fair is a four day festival set in the Matterley bowl in Hampshire, UK on the second weekend of August. Boomtown fuses a diverse line-up of underground and global music with boundary pushing immersive…
Christmas
Southampton
The 2026 Southampton Christmas Market will this year take place from 12th November 2026 until 27th December 2026.
Step into Christmas at Southampton Christmas Market's festive wonderland. Soak up the atmosphere as you browse an array of traditional…
Sporting Event
Portsmouth
SailGP returns to the UK with fast and furious racing set to take place right here in Portsmouth.
Sporting Event
Cowes
Isle of Wight sailing race The annual Round the Island Race, organised by the Island Sailing Club, is a one-day yacht race around the Isle of Wight. The race regularly attracts over 1,000 boats and thousands of sailors, making it one of the largest…
Show / Display
Brockenhurst
The New Forest and Hampshire County Show is an annual agricultural show held for three days at the end of July at New Park, Brockenhurst in Hampshire.
Christmas
Petersfield
Petersfield Christmas Market is back for 2026
Christmas
Brockenhurst
Begin the countdown to Christmas with New Forest chocolatier Kerry Witt as you create your own handcrafted chocolate advent calendar at Careys Manor Hotel
Festival
Lymington
This 10-12th July the Lymington Seafood Festival gets set to celebrate its 10th birthday. The event has grown into one of the south coasts leading food festivals with sell out crowds sampling delicious seafood, live music, the best local chefs…
Christmas
Ampfield, Romsey
Find the perfect handmade arts and crafts gifts this Christmas at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens festive market. Explore and purchase wonderful unique gifts directly from talented local makers.
Festival
Southsea
The annual Southsea Food Festival is back for 2025!
Christmas
Southampton
Snowmen are on the loose! The Southampton Snow Windows Trail Returns for 2026
Christmas
London Road, Whitchurch
Head along to a unique setting for a cinema night, at one of the upcoming festive Cinema Nights at Bombay Sapphire Distillery and get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience.
Christmas
Winchester
Join thousands of visitors at the Winchester Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026 on 19 November for an evening of live entertainment, festive family activities and Christmas cheer. Watch the city lights illuminate Winchester's historic centre, enjoy…
Portsmouth 100
Portsmouth
In 2026, Portsmouth celebrates its 100th anniversary of becoming a city with a wide round program of events and activities for both visitors and residents to enjoy. Visit the city, join the events and discover more of Portsmouth's fascinating…
Christmas
Brockenhurst
With festive dining inspired by the New Forest, experience dishes created using locally sourced ingredients and executed with a striking twist makes Careys Manor's flagship restaurant, Cambium, the place to meet and celebrate this Christmas.
Talks
23 Harbour Parade, Southampton
Join the John Lewis Southampton store on Monday 16 November for all the beauty inspiration you need this Christmas.
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